ARLINGTON — Another roundabout will soon be constructed near the downtown area.

After gathering input from an open house in July, WSDOT engineers have decided to build a roundabout to relieve congestion and improve safety at the SR 9/SR 531 intersection south of downtown Arlington, according to a statement released Tuesday, Oct. 6.

“We really looked at the pros and cons of each option and found that the roundabout provides the greatest safety and congestion benefits for the longest period of time,” WSDOT project manager Jason Koreski said. “It will provide the greatest return on our investment, working efficiently 20 to 30 years from now.”

Engineers had originally considered improving the signal, which is currently in place at the intersection, or constructing the roundabout.

According to WSDOT, 16,000 drivers use the intersection each day. Between 2004-2008, the transportation agency reported 28 accidents at the intersection, which have accounted for 29 injuries.

Construction on the new roundabout is scheduled to begin in 2011.

A second open house is scheduled later this month for residents to learn more about the project. The time, date and location for the open house have not been released.

For more information, visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/Projects/SR9/SR531intersection.